Hyrum Mervyn "Merv" James

Hyrum Mervyn (Merv) James, our loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend passed away September 30, 2024 at his home surrounded by loved ones.

He was born on April 22, 1930 in Salt Lake City to Alvin John James and Mary Elizabeth Jensen. He had many fond memories growing up at the Jensen home. He married his beloved wife Marlene Joyce Grow on June 22, 1956 in The Salt Lake City Temple.

Merv graduated from South High School and the University of Utah, receiving his Masters in Education. He served a mission in Denmark and continued to be a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many positions.

Merv was an Army veteran, stationed in Germany. He was a hard worker, always bragging about starting at the age of 13 1/2, working two jobs, and retiring at 79 years old.

He was an elementary school teacher for 37 years along with working at Harmons for 28 years, making many friends. Merv had a smile that touched many and was known as "Mr. Fantastic". He had a great love of sports, watching and participating in basketball, softball, bowling, etc. He also played table tennis with his son and friends till the age of 90. He enjoyed his many community neighbors and ward family.  He would meet up every Monday with his "Harem" to play cards.

Our cherished memories are spending time with dad at the family cabin in Kamas and Timberlakes. Also, our yearly visits to Yellowstone and Jeremy Ranch.

Merv is survived by his son Craig James, his three daughters LuAnn James, Terry Erickson(Craig) and Jo Stapley, eleven grandchildren; Joshua, Alex, Jessica, Danielle(Bret), Skye(Chase), Charli(Daniel), Dustin, Alysia(Ben), Heather(TJ), Rob(Jerilyn), and Lexi(Matt), fourteen great grandchildren, sister Aline Gehrke, along with cherished in-laws, nieces, and nephews. 

Merv was preceded in death by his loving wife, Marlene, his parents, his sister Yvonne Stahl, and his brother Boyd James.

We'd like to offer a special thanks to his loving children and son-in-law for their endless support and care throughout the past 6 months of surgery and recovery. Especially his daughter, Terry, who contributed countless hours of caregiving, along with her special love and tenderness with him. We are grateful to those in the medical field that gave special attention to helping prolong with his desire to live longer. 

Funeral services will take place on Monday, October 7, 2024 at 12:00 PM at Westland 2nd Ward, 7171 South 2700 West, West Jordan, Utah. A viewing will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Rd (10600 S), Sandy, Utah on Sunday, October 6 from 6:00-8:00 PM and Monday, October 7 from 10:30-11:45 AM at the church prior to the service.